For the past twenty years, coffee has been my morning companion. My love affair with this caffeinated beverage started during an internship with a theater troupe performing for young audiences. Waking up early was a struggle for my youthful self, and I quickly realized I needed a boost to survive the long days.
All the other interns were coffee enthusiasts, stopping at the convenience store to grab their daily fix. I had always avoided it, claiming I didn’t enjoy bitter flavors, until one actor suggested I sweeten it up with sugar and cream. One particularly exhausting morning, I decided to give it a shot.
From that moment on, I was hooked. Whether I was budgeting tightly or feeling unwell, coffee became a non-negotiable part of my morning routine. I even once paid a steep delivery fee for a cup while caring for a sick child. The only breaks I took from my daily brew were during my pregnancies, but those periods are a blur in my memory.
Recently, I decided to embark on a month-long coffee hiatus. I was experiencing health issues that seemed tied to my beloved drink. Every time I had my morning cup, I would break out in hives, itching uncontrollably. I first suspected the dairy cream, but switching to non-dairy didn’t help. After some trial and error, I came to the conclusion that caffeine itself might be the culprit.
Reluctantly, I began to devise a plan. I committed to one week without coffee and enlisted my husband for support. I stocked up on tea to ensure I had a warm beverage to start my mornings. In my research on quitting coffee, I discovered L-glutamine, a supplement believed to help curb sugar cravings, which I ordered to aid in my detox.
Surprisingly, the first day was easier than I expected, perhaps thanks to the L-glutamine. I woke up without cravings and focused on drinking plenty of water throughout the day. By the end of it, I had avoided headaches and even fell asleep more quickly than usual. As the days progressed, I continued to feel good, enjoying clear mornings without coffee.
However, by week two, the cravings hit hard. I found myself yearning for that rich aroma and flavor. Just as I was ready to give in, my daughter suggested hot chocolate—thank goodness it worked! Upon reflection, it seemed my cravings were more about sugar than caffeine.
I persevered for the entire month, and the results were remarkable. Not only did I experience improved sleep and clearer mornings, but I also noticed a reduction in stomach bloating and no more hives. My skin was brighter and clearer too.
So, did I give up coffee for good? Not quite. As soon as the month ended, I returned to my beloved brew. The difference now is that I drink it when I want to, not because I need to. It’s liberating to know that my energy comes from within and not from a cup of coffee.
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In summary, giving up coffee for a month led to unexpected health benefits and a newfound understanding of my cravings. While I still enjoy coffee, I now have control over my consumption rather than being a slave to it.
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